Updated on 13 November 2026
A new (or refurbished) iPhone is ready to use within minutes if you place your old one next to it. Quick Start transfers your apps, photos, messages and settings wirelessly, no computer needed. Here is how it works, what to prepare and how to bring WhatsApp and your eSIM along.
The short answer
- Fastest way: place both iPhones side by side, turn on Bluetooth and follow Quick Start on the new iPhone.
- Old iPhone not at hand: restore an iCloud backup during setup.
- WhatsApp: moves with Quick Start or WhatsApp's own iCloud backup, as long as you sign in with the same phone number.
Before you start
- Update your old iPhone to the latest iOS it supports (Settings > General > Software Update).
- Charge both devices or keep them plugged in.
- Know your Apple Account password. You will need it on the new iPhone.
- Apple Watch? You pair it again afterwards; your data is in the backup.
Method 1: Quick Start (recommended)
- Turn on the new iPhone and place it next to your old iPhone. The Quick Start screen appears on the old iPhone.
- Tap Continue and scan the animation on the new iPhone with your old iPhone's camera.
- Enter your old passcode on the new iPhone and set up Face ID or Touch ID.
- Choose Transfer from iPhone and keep the devices together until it finishes. With many photos this can take up to an hour.
During Quick Start you can also transfer your eSIM if your carrier supports it. See eSIM and dual SIM on the iPhone.
Method 2: iCloud backup
Useful if your old iPhone is broken or gone. Make or check a backup via Settings > [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup, then choose Restore from iCloud Backup during setup. Not enough iCloud storage? Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Prepare for New iPhone gives you temporary extra iCloud storage for the move.
Method 3: via your Mac or PC
Connect your old iPhone to a Mac (Finder) or Windows PC (Apple Devices or iTunes) and make an encrypted backup, so passwords and health data come along too. Then connect the new iPhone and choose Restore Backup.
Transferring WhatsApp
- iPhone to iPhone: chats usually move with Quick Start. If not, back up in WhatsApp via Settings > Chats > Chat Backup and restore it after signing in on the new iPhone.
- Android to iPhone: use the Move to iOS app during setup; it can include your WhatsApp chats.
- Always sign in with the same phone number, otherwise WhatsApp cannot find your backup.
After the transfer
- Check that photos, apps and passwords are complete before you erase your old iPhone.
- Selling or trading in your old device? Erase it completely: see erase your iPhone before selling or trading it in.
Looking for a new iPhone?
At iUsed you buy a refurbished iPhone with a 3-year warranty, a battery of at least 80% and no SIM lock. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Frequently asked questions
How long does transferring take?
Usually 15 to 60 minutes. It depends on how many photos and videos you have and on your Wi-Fi speed.
Can I transfer without Wi-Fi?
Yes, with a cable. Quick Start can connect both iPhones by cable, and a Mac or PC works without Wi-Fi too.
Do my apps come along?
Yes, they are downloaded again. Banking and some other apps ask you to sign in or activate them again.
Need help?
Ask your question via the contact form.